Europe car rentals
Search hundreds of rental car sites at once for car rental deals in Europe
Save up to 36%Compare multiple travel sites with one search.
Free to useThere are no hidden charges or fees.
Filter your dealsFilter by car type, brand and more. Instantly customise your results.
Book with flexibilityUse our "free cancellation" filter for maximum flexibility at no extra cost.
Cheap car rentals in Europe
Car rental directory
Free2Move car rental locations in Europe
4584 Locations
Sunnycars car rental locations in Europe
4156 Locations
keddy by Europcar car rental locations in Europe
3896 Locations
Europcar car rental locations in Europe
2994 Locations
Hertz car rental locations in Europe
2437 Locations
Avis car rental locations in Europe
2187 Locations
Sixt car rental locations in Europe
1790 Locations
Enterprise Rent-A-Car car rental locations in Europe
1776 Locations
Budget car rental locations in Europe
1535 Locations
FLIZZR car rental locations in Europe
1305 Locations
Thrifty car rental locations in Europe
1096 Locations
Dollar car rental locations in Europe
999 Locations
Good to know
Most popular agency | keddy by Europcar |
|---|---|
Most popular car type | Compact |
Average price | $36/day |
Good deal | $26/day |
When to book a rental car in Europe
Top tips for renting a car in Europe
- 25% of our users found rental cars in Europe for $26 or less
- Book your rental car in Europe at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Off-airport rental car locations in Europe are around 56% more expensive than airport locations on average
- Compact rental cars in Europe are around 87% cheaper than other car types, on average
- When planning a European road trip, your rental car selection should align with your itinerary's diverse terrains and destinations. If you're focusing on exploring bustling cities like Paris or London or cruising well-maintained highways in countries such as Germany or France, a two-wheel-drive (2WD) vehicle, available from reputable providers like Avis or Hertz, offers excellent fuel efficiency and urban maneuverability. However, if your adventure leads you to rugged terrains like Scotland's Highlands or Norway's fjords, a four-wheel-drive (4WD) rental is essential for stability and traction on unpaved roads.
- Car rentals in Europe often require strict adherence to child safety regulations, making it essential for parents to travel with appropriate car seats. In many European countries, child seats or restraints are mandatory, mainly under a certain age or height. Parents should check the specific regulations of their destination, as age requirements may vary. For example, in France, children under ten years should be in a car seat adapted to their height and weight. While in Germany, children under 12 should be restrained in a child car seat. Some European car rental companies, like SIXT, may offer the option to rent child seats for added convenience.
- When renting a car in Europe, it's essential to be prepared for potential border crossings, especially in regions like Austria, where travelers often explore neighboring countries like Germany, Italy, or France. Consider the costs involved such as tolls, vignettes, and international insurance coverage when planning your rental. Documentation requirements typically include a valid driver's license, passport, rental confirmation, and knowledge of visa or entry requirements for each destination. Some rental companies, like Enterprise, offer the advantage of permitting border crossings to all European countries at no additional cost. In contrast, Hertz may restrict travel to certain countries like Bulgaria and Estonia.
- Car rentals in Europe offer convenience for travelers arriving through airports. Most European airports have car rental facilities readily available for passengers. For instance, when flying into Turin Caselle Airport (TRN) in Italy, several trusted car rental companies offer on-site car rental services. Similarly, Lisbon Airport (LIS) in Portugal provides car rental services through local and international companies. Many of these rental providers offer advance booking options, ensuring you can secure your preferred vehicle that meets your needs as soon as you land.
FAQs about renting a car in Europe
How much does it cost to rent a car in Europe?
On average a rental car in Europe costs $25 per day.
What is the most popular rental car in Europe?
Compact (Nissan Versa Note or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Europe.
What is the cheapest car rental company in Europe?
In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Pricecarz ($5/day), CarQ ($5/day) and SURPRICE CAR RENTAL ($5/day).
What is the best rental car company in Europe?
Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car rental companies in Europe are National (7.7, 57 reviews), Alamo (7.6, 745 reviews), and Enterprise Rent-A-Car (7.6, 698 reviews).
How can I find car rentals near me in Europe?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
How much does it cost to rent a car for a week in Europe?
On average a rental car in Europe costs $259 per week ($37 per day).
How much does it cost to rent a car long term for a month in Europe?
On average a rental car in Europe costs $1,110 per month ($37 per day).
Should I rent a car in Europe?
Renting a car in Europe offers numerous advantages over relying solely on public transportation. It provides the convenience and freedom to explore the continent's diverse landscapes and iconic destinations at your pace. You can deviate from fixed schedules and access off-the-beaten-path locations, enhancing your travel experience. Some European attractions accessible via rental car include the scenic Swiss Alps, the historic castles of France's Loire Valley, and the picturesque villages of Italy's Amalfi Coast.
What is driving like in Europe?
Driving car rentals in Europe offers a diverse experience, with driving styles and regulations varying between countries. Generally, European driving tends to be more rule-bound and disciplined. Roads are usually well-maintained in urban areas, and traffic rules are strictly enforced. Traffic congestion can be expected in popular tourist destinations such as the historic streets of Rome or the bustling avenues of Paris. Speed limits and driving regulations are marked, and toll roads, like the German Autobahn or Italy's Autostrade, are frequently used. In most European countries, driving is on the right side of the road, with France, Germany, and Italy being notable examples, while Ireland and the United Kingdom drive on the left.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Europe?
In Europe, the minimum age to rent a car typically starts at 21, but this can vary depending on the country and rental provider. Many companies, such as Enterprise, impose additional fees known as young driver surcharges for renters under 25 years old, with costs ranging between approximately €11and 22 ($12 and 23) per day. It's essential to note that these fees can vary not only by provider but also by the specific region within a country. Additionally, some rental providers may restrict drivers under 25 from renting certain vehicle classes, including luxury cars or vans.